1952: Stassen/Lodge (R) vs. Chandler/Johnson (D)

[Robespierre's Jaw]

Suppose in 1952, neither Dwight Eisenhower and Robert A. Taft run for the Republican Nomination.

In a shock, former Governor of Minnesota Harold E. Stassen is nominated after winning the primaries easily. For Vice President, Governor Stassen selects Massachussetts Senator Henry Cabot Lodge.

Whilst on the Democratic side, former Governor and Senator of Kentucky, Albert 'Happy' Chandler is nominated. For Vice President, Chandler selects Senator Lyndon B. Johnson of Texas.

How would this election turn out? Discuss with maps.

[Lincoln Republican]

By 1952, the Democats had held the White House for 20 years.  The nation was looking for change. 

Neither Stassen nor Chandler could hardly be considered as "A" list Presidential contenders, however, between these two second tier candidates, the voters pick Stassen.  The parties picking these two candidates would be a shock alright, to the parties and to the nation.   

Harold Stassen was actually a major player, for a time, in the 1948 pre-election season, with polls showing he would defeat Harry Truman. 

The election establishes Lyndon Johnson as a major force in the Democratic Party, after the very capable campaign he ran as the Vice Presidential nominee. 

Stassen and Lodge win handily.   

Stassen/Lodge            311
Chandler/Johnson        220

[Kaine for Senate '18]

Stassen/Lodge: 348
Chandler/Johnson: 183